Flu causes MCG to restrict visitation

A rise in flu cases in Augusta, particularly among children, prompted Medical College of Georgia Hospital and Clinics to temporarily restrict hospital visitation to those over age 17, the hospital announced today.

There has been a recent rise in flu among school-age children in the Augusta area, and past trends show those children quickly spread flu through the school and home environment, health system officials said in a news release. Children under5, particularly very young children, are also at increased risk from flu complications, the health system said.

Those with flu-like symptoms are also asked not to visit patients at the hospital.